Longview Teen Court Secures $17.5K Grant to Aid Youth Rehabilitation

A program designed to support young individuals facing legal challenges in Longview has received a significant financial boost. On November 7, 2023, the Texas Bar Foundation awarded a grant of $17,500 to the Longview Teen Court, aimed at helping teenagers who commit misdemeanor offenses navigate a path to rehabilitation.

Founded in 1988 by the Junior League of Longview, the Teen Court serves as an alternative sentencing option for juveniles. This legally binding program allows young offenders to plead “guilty” or “no contest” in the city’s municipal court while opting for community-centered consequences rather than traditional fines or detention.

The funds from the Texas Bar Foundation will support the general operations of the Teen Court, which also receives financial assistance from the city of Longview. Executive Director Carlton Smith expressed gratitude for the grant, emphasizing its role in sustaining the program’s objectives.

Community Engagement and Support

Participation in Teen Court requires offenders to engage in community service, serve on the Teen Court jury, and attend educational courses tailored to their offenses, such as traffic safety or substance possession awareness classes. “Essentially, it’s a way for teens to atone for their offense, but also give back to the community,” Smith noted.

The program aims to significantly reduce recidivism among its participants. According to Smith, fewer than 10% of adolescents involved in Teen Court become repeat offenders, showcasing the program’s effectiveness in fostering accountability and community integration.

While fulfilling their community service, participants have opportunities to interact with police officers, local business owners, and other community members, helping to build constructive relationships. “As they invest more time in the community, the community gets to know them, and they get to know the community as well,” Smith added.

Future Opportunities and Impact

Oversight of the Teen Court operations is managed by a board comprising community members. Natasha Harrell, treasurer of the Teen Court board, highlighted the program’s often-overlooked benefits, including the opportunity for young people to keep tickets off their records. “It’s a huge benefit,” she stated. “It’s going to make sure that they learn what they need to learn when they’re not doing right, but it doesn’t impact their future drastically going forward.”

Echoing Harrell’s sentiments, Eric Hatley, president of the Teen Court board, expressed appreciation for the grant from the Texas Bar Foundation. The Teen Court operates out of the Stamper Park Resource Center, located at 502 S. Center St., while proceedings are held at the Longview Municipal Court at 302 W. Cotton St..

The Teen Court board is currently seeking new members. Individuals interested in contributing to this impactful initiative can find more information on the organization’s website at longviewteencourt.org.

This grant and the continued operation of the Longview Teen Court exemplify a community-focused approach to juvenile justice, aiming not only to hold young people accountable but also to facilitate their growth and reintegration into society.